First surfacing at the Shanghai Auto Exhibition in 2015, the GAC GS4 has risen to be one of the most important models for the Chinese automaker. This compact crossover SUV is built on the same front-wheel drive architecture as that found underpinning its GA3 sedan sibling. Still in its first generation, the GAC GS4 entered the UAE crossover market tagged along by some aggressive pricing to make it a compelling and competitive offer within the highly sought-after segment.
Interestingly enough, the GAC GS4 is offered only as a full option vehicle, something that you can’t get at a similar price with its rivals. Speaking of which, its chief competitors in the UAE include the likes of the Hyundai Creta, Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, Kia Sportage, and Nissan Kicks.
Exterior
The general design theme and styling of the 2019 GAC GS4 is pretty much what you’d expect from a modern, urban crossover SUV. It’s not to say that it isn’t a decent looker, but if you’re used to most modern-day crossovers, I doubt this one will blow your mind. That said, the front fascia looks pleasant enough with its wide chrome embellished grille, sleek projector headlights with their neatly-integrated arrow-shaped turn indicators, clamshell hood with a subtle power bulge, and an aggressively-molded bumper with vertically-aligned LED DRLs, circular foglamp housing, a central air intake, and a pseudo bash plate.
Apparent styling cues along the side include some sharp character lines and ridges, along with overtly pronounced wheel arches, noticeably-high ground clearance, door-mounted wing mirrors, black lower-body cladding, stylish multi-spoke alloy wheels, and a ‘floating’ roof. The rear of the GS4 looks distinctive with its sporty roof spoiler, narrow back window, sculpted tailgate, wraparound taillights, and the now ubiquitous bumper-mounted fake skid plate and exhaust tips. The GS4 comes in at 4.510 meters in length, 1.852 meters in width, 1.708 meters in height, and its wheelbase stretches across 2.650 meters. The five-seat layout and long body of the GS4 blesses it with a 500-liter boot, which is far from bad.
Interior
The interior space of the 2019 GAC GS4 is actually quite pleasant and feels right on the money. The full option trim comes with decent leather-covered seats and surfaces, while the use of different colors and plastic bits results in a fairly good looking cabin. Of course, the quality of some of the trim and fittings isn’t the best in the business, but it’s a lot better than what you might expect.
Its generous exterior proportions mean that the GS4 can easily accommodate five adults without throwing a hissy. When you pair that with acceptable NVH levels and those big windows, this can be a comfortable space to spend some time in. It’s also packed with many features and conveniences such as a powered driver’s seat, leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel, electric sunroof, electronic handbrake, keyless-entry with push-button start, parking sensors with rear camera, automatic climate control, and an 8-inch touch-infotainment rig with navigation. The GAC GS4’s also gets 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, hill assist, blind-spot warning, and stability control.
Engine and performance
The 2019 GAC GS4 is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine that’s good for 152 hp and 235 Nm of torque. This mill is mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission and drives the front wheels. The GS4 can make it to a top whack of 180 km/h, while 0-100 km/h takes around 9.5 seconds. It also averages a decent 6.1 L/100 km on your standard dino juice.
Verdict
The 2019 GAC GS4 full option trim comes in at AED 70,900, while insurance will set you back by around AED 1,105.
